Bayar Zakat: The Fourth Pillar of Islam

Sub-Heading: The Importance of Paying Zakat

Zakat is an obligatory alms-giving that is one of the five pillars of Islam. It is a form of worship that purifies wealth and helps to establish economic equality in society. Zakat is a tax on wealth, and it is calculated based on the value of one's assets. The proceeds of zakat are used to support the poor and needy, including orphans, widows, and the sick.

Paying zakat is a way to show gratitude to Allah for the blessings that one has been given. It is also a way to help those who are less fortunate. Zakat is an opportunity to share wealth with those who need it most, and it is a way to make a difference in the world.

Who is Obligated to Pay Zakat?

The obligation to pay zakat falls on all Muslims who meet the following criteria:

• They are sane and adult (puberty).
• They are financially well off (nisab) .
• They have owned the wealth for a period of one year.

The Calculation of Zakat

The amount of zakat that is due is calculated based on the value of one's assets. The minimum amount of wealth that is subject to zakat is called the nisab. The nisab is equal to 85 grams of gold or 595 grams of silver.

Once a person has reached the nisab, they are required to pay 2.5% of their wealth in zakat. This includes the value of their cash, savings, investments, and property.

Islamic Authorities on Zakat

Muslims consider Zakat to be an important religious obligation outlined in the Quran, the holy book of Islam. According to the Quran, Allah commands believers to pay Zakat to purify their wealth and seek forgiveness for their sins.

Prominent Islamic scholars throughout history have emphasized the significance of Zakat. For example, Imam Abu Hanifa, the founder of the Hanafi school of Islamic jurisprudence, stated that Zakat is obligatory for every Muslim who possesses the necessary wealth.

Imam Malik, the founder of the Maliki school of Islamic jurisprudence, emphasized the importance of Zakat in promoting social welfare. He believed that Zakat should be used to support the poor and needy and to help those who are struggling financially.

Bayar Zakat